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Contents
04 Introduction 12 Choosing the right collar

05 Are you ready for a pet? 14 Introducing cats to cats

06 Is a dog right for you? 17 Introducing dogs to cats

08 Is a cat right for you? 20 Housetraining puppies & dogs

10 Pet adoption checklist 20 Grooming your pet

11 Pet-proofing your home

Introduction
THANK YOU for downloading this guide. Thanks to our community of animal
We hope you’ll enjoy this selection of advocates, we're able to:
articles that we’ve carefully chosen to help
you welcome your new family member, Save, shelter, feed and care for
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4
Are you ready for a pet?
AS SOON AS YOU ENTER AN ANIMAL What major changes might happen to you
SHELTER, all of the cute, cuddly animals during a pet’s lifetime? Marriage?
will immediately tempt you to adopt. That’s Children? New job? Long-distance move?
why it’s so important to consider whether Are you willing to continue spending the
bringing an animal into your life is right for time, energy, and money to care for your
you before any adorable faces find their pet when taking on new responsibilities?
way into your heart and home. What will you do if your spouse or child is
allergic to, or cannot get along with, your
Far too many animals in this country are pet? If you’re getting a pet for children you
initially loved and then neglected or have now, are you willing to take on the
abandoned over time because owners responsibility of caring for this pet when
decide — too late — that caring for pets is your children grow up, lose interest, or
more responsibility than they actually move away? Have you previously owned a
want. The truth is, adopting a companion pet that died prematurely due to a
animal is a big step — one that will affect preventable accident or illness, such as
your lifestyle for many years. being hit by a car or suffering from
heartworm disease? If so, what will you do
So before you adopt, there’s some things differently with a new pet to prevent the
to consider. Have you thought about what same thing from happening again?
it means that a pet will be completely
dependent on you for their entire life? If you consider all these questions and
What will happen if you decide to move? decide “YES, I am ready for a pet!” the
And have you considered whether your next step is to decide what pet is right for
lifestyle and personality would make you a you…
better dog owner or cat owner?

Is a puppy/kitten right for you or should

you consider an older pet? It’s important to
remember the lifespan of an animal and
consider what is likely to be happening in
your own life in the future. With good care,
most dogs can live 12 to 15 years and
most cats can live 15 to 20 years.
Adopting a new pet means committing to
them for the rest of their life, so it’s critical
that you take that into consideration.

5
Is a dog right for you?
MAYBE YOU'VE HEARD DOG OWNERS WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR
SAY, “Having a dog is like having a child IN A DOG?
who never grows up.” This statement often
brings skeptical looks from people who Consider the qualities and personality you
have never shared their lives with a dog, want, before size and appearance. For
but those who have, know all too well. example, a large shepherd-mix might do
better than an energetic terrier in an
Like children, dogs are completely apartment. Think about your lifestyle and
dependent on their owners for all their habits to determine which breed is best
needs — food, water, medical attention, suited to you. Know everything you want in
exercise, shelter and, most important, a dog except what the animal looks like.
companionship. But unlike children, dogs Very often the pet that has the qualities
will never learn to pour themselves a drink you're looking for will come in an
or fix their own breakfast. Dogs never unexpected package.
learn to look both ways before crossing the
street, and they can’t stop and ask for YOU MAY BE THE PERFECT DOG
directions if they get lost. You can’t even OWNER IF YOU. . .
send them to the babysitter when you
need a night off. Believe caring for a dog for 15 years
doesn’t seem like a lifetime.
People who decide to open their homes to Look forward to big, wet kisses when
a dog are choosing to change their daily you come home each day.
lives and routines. For many, the years of Like sharing your house with someone
companionship and unconditional love and who sheds, tracks dirt occasionally,
devotion they receive from their dog far and possibly drools.
outweigh the daily responsibilities, but Don’t mind sharing your house with
some lifestyles might make it impossible. someone who will never clean up after
themselves.
If you decide that a canine would fit Want to take care of someone.
perfectly into your family, there are some Love a playmate who likes to chase
things to consider… balls and drag off shoes.
Don’t mind a playmate who likes to
slobber on balls and toys.
Would like to spend your extra money
on pet food, toys, veterinary care,
chew bones… and more chew bones.
Want someone to adore you even on a
bad hair day.

6
Is a dog right for you?

Don’t mind a playmate that might chew IF A DOG DOESN'T SOUND RIGHT FOR
on furniture legs or shoes. YOU and you still want a furry companion,
Believe that spaying and neutering maybe it’s time to consider…
pets will help solve the pet
overpopulation problem.
Can’t imagine leaving your devoted pet
behind when you move.
Want to keep an ID tag on your pets,
so they can always get back to you no
matter what.
Enjoy unconditional love and constant
companionship.

7
Is a cat right for you?
WHILE CATS MAKE PURR-FECT PETS DO YOU WANT A MALE CAT OR A
FOR SOME PEOPLE, they don’t for FEMALE CAT?
others. Cats are dependent on their
owners for all their needs — food, water, Both male and female cats can be equally
medical attention, exercise, shelter, and, playful and affectionate! Gender is based
most importantly, companionship. For purely on personal preference.
many people, the years of unconditional
love and devotion they receive from their
furry “kids” far outweigh the daily YOU MAY BE THE PERFECT CAT
responsibilities. But for others, their OWNER IF YOU. . .
lifestyles make it impossible.
Believe caring for a pet for 15 to 18
If you have decided that a feline would fit years does not seem like a lifetime.
perfectly into your family, there are still Look forward to having your ankles
things to consider… rubbed by an affectionate, hairy
animal.
DO YOU WANT A KITTEN OR AN Don’t mind sharing your house with
ADULT CAT? someone who sheds, tracks kitty litter
and throws up hairballs.
This is especially important to decide Don’t mind sharing your house with
before you get to the shelter. The someone who will never clean up after
attraction of tiny mewing kittens is hard to themselves.
resist, but kittens need a lot of attention Love a housemate who will randomly
and will have to be house-trained. On the and regularly entertain you with
plus side, kittens adapt quickly to their outrageous and silly antics (at their
surroundings. For many people, an adult whim, not yours).
cat is a wise choice, especially if you’re at Want to take care of someone every
work all day or wouldn’t enjoy the day.
boisterous antics of a kitten. Like your lap warmed whenever you sit
down.
WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED COAT Would like to spend your extra money
LENGTH? on pet food, toys, veterinary care, kitty
litter… and more kitty litter.
Do you want a cat with long, medium, or Want to be welcomed with a soft purr
short hair? Long-haired cats require of appreciation.
almost daily brushing to keep their fur from Want to occasionally be awakened in
matting, so be prepared to spend regular the middle of the night to “play”
time grooming these cats.

8
Is a cat right for you?

Believe that spaying and neutering IF A CAT OR DOG is right for you and
pets will help solve the pet you've decided to adopt, the next step is
overpopulation problem. preparing for their arrival...
Can’t imagine leaving your devoted pet
behind when you move.
Want to keep an ID tag on your pets,
so they can always get back to you no
matter what.
Enjoy unconditional love and constant
companionship.
Believe that keeping your cat indoors
is best for your pet’s well-being.

9
Pet adoption checklist
THINKING OF ADOPTING A PET? First, Budget for the short and long-term
check out these helpful tips. costs of a new pet. Any pet is a
responsibility and there’s a cost
If you’re thinking about adopting a associated with that. A cat or dog
cat, consider taking home two. Cats adopted from a shelter is a bargain;
require exercise, mental stimulation, many facilities will have already
and social interaction. Two cats can provided spaying or neutering, initial
provide this for each other. Plus they’ll vaccines, and a microchip.
provide more benefits to you. Cats’ Stock up on supplies before the
purring has been shown to soothe new family member arrives. Be
humans as well as themselves – and prepared so your new pet can start
they have an uncanny ability to just feeling at home right away. A cat will
make you smile. A great place to start need a litter box, cat litter, food and
your search is online. Sites like water bowls, food, scratching posts,
petfinder.com let you search numerous safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed,
shelters in your area simultaneously to a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and
help narrow your search and more nail clippers. A dog will need dog toys,
quickly find the match that’s right for a collar and leash, food and water
you and your new feline friend. bowls, food, a cushy bed, a grooming
Find a pet whose personality brush, dog shampoo, and a dog pen.
meshes with yours. Just as we each Be sure to include your new pet in
have our own personality, so do your family’s emergency plan. You
animals. Adoption counselors can offer probably have a plan in place for
advice to help you match the pet's getting your family to safety in case of
personality with your own. an emergency. Adjust this plan to
Pick out a veterinarian ahead of include your pets. Add phone numbers
time and schedule a visit within the for your veterinarian and closest 24-
first few days following the hour animal hospital to your “in-case-
adoption. You’ll want to take any of-emergency” call list.
medical records you received from the If you’re considering giving a pet as
adoption center on your first visit. a gift, make sure the recipient is an
Make sure everyone in the house is active participant in the adoption
prepared to have new animal before process. Though well-meaning, the
it comes home. Visiting the shelter or surprise animal gift doesn’t allow for a
animal control facility should be a “get-to know-one-another” period.
family affair. When adopting a new pet Remember, adopting a cat or dog isn’t
with existing pets at home, discuss like purchasing a household appliance
with the adoption facility how to make or a piece of jewelry – this is a real
a proper introduction. living, breathing, and emotional being.
10
Pet-proofing your home
DOGS AND CATS CAN BE VERY Move common house plants that may
CURIOUS (especially kittens). Here’s how be poisonous out of reach. Don’t forget
to keep your companion animal safe in hanging plants that can be jumped
your home: onto from nearby surfaces.
Make sure all heating/air vents have
KITCHENS/BATHROOMS covers.
Put away all sewing and craft notions,
Use childproof latches to keep little especially thread.
paws from prying open cabinets.
Place medications, cleaners, GARAGE
chemicals and laundry supplies on
high shelves or locked away. Move all chemicals to high shelves or
Keep trash cans covered or inside a behind secure doors.
latched cabinet. Clean all antifreeze from the floor and
Check for and block any small spaces, driveway, as one taste can be lethal to
nooks or holes inside cabinets or animals.
behind washer/dryer units. Bang on your car hood to ensure that
Make sure your kitten hasn’t jumped your kitten (or any neighborhood cat)
into the dryer before you turn it on. has not hidden in the engine
Keep foods out of reach (even if the compartment for warmth.
food isn’t harmful, the wrapper could Keep all sharp objects and tools out of
be). reach.
Keep the toilet lid closed to prevent
drowning or drinking of harmful BEDROOMS
cleaning chemicals.
Keep laundry and shoes behind closed
doors (drawstrings and buttons can
LIVING/FAMILY ROOM cause major problems if swallowed).
Keep any medications, lotions or
Place dangling wires from any cosmetics off accessible surfaces (like
electronics out of reach. the bedside table).
Put away children’s toys and games. Move electrical and phone wires out of
Put away knick-knacks until your kitten reach of chewing.
has the coordination not to knock them Be careful that you don’t close your
over. kitten in closets or dresser drawers.
Check all those places where your And look out for paws, noses and tails
vacuum cleaner doesn’t fit, but your when you shut doors behind you or
puppy or kitten does, for dangerous scoot chairs.
items like string.
11
Choosing the right collar
IT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO PLACE THE You should be able to easily slip two or
FIRST COLLAR ON A NEW PET, three fingers between the collar and your
especially if that animal is not used to pet’s neck, although it shouldn’t be so
wearing one. However, it is important that loose that it can slip off over the head.
all puppies and dogs wear collars and ID
tags; in fact, in many areas, it’s the law! CHOOSING THE TYPE OF COLLAR
And for cats, a collar and ID tag may be
your cat’s ticket home if they accidentally For cats, be sure to buy a “break-away”
escape or wander off. Even indoor-only safety collar that can easily come open if it
cats should wear collars, because if your gets caught on something. This will
cat does get out, a well-meaning person prevent the collar from accidentally
may think your cat is a stray and take them strangling your cat.
to an animal shelter.
For dogs, you should always keep ID tags
Your cat may scratch at the collar at first, on with a properly fitted, flat-buckle collar
since it feels foreign, but she should adjust made of nylon, cotton or leather. You may
to it with time and patience. Try using a wish to display your dog’s ID tags on a
tasty treat, catnip toy or climbing post to body harness as well, but keep in mind
distract your cat’s attention from the new that some dogs may chew off body
collar. By the time she finishes the treat, harnesses when left unattended. Training
she may have forgotten the collar entirely. collars — such as head harnesses, choke
You may have to repeat this trick a few collars/chains and pinch or prong collars
times, but stick with it — the benefits are — should never be left on a dog
certainly worth the effort. unattended. Such collars are intended only
for training purposes while the dog is
PAIN IN THE NECK under supervision, and should be removed
when the dog is not being trained or
Remember that collars don't expand but walked.
kittens and puppies both grow quickly! If
not checked frequently and loosened as MICROCHIPPING
needed, collars can grow into your pet’s
neck and cause excruciating, constant Microchips are an ideal way to provide
pain. Be sure to check your pet’s collar at permanent identification that will always
least every week until it is full grown, and stay with your pet. A microchip is a tiny
check your adult pet’s collar regularly to capsule (about the size of a piece of rice)
make sure it fits properly and is safely that is injected painlessly under the
secured. animal’s skin between the shoulder
blades.

12
Choosing the right collar

Each chip contains a unique ID number ONCE YOUR HOME IS PREPARED and
that can be read by a scanner and then you have the right collar picked out, it's
matched with owner information in a time to bring your new family member
comprehensive database. Once your pet is home...
microchipped, be sure to update your
contact information in the database if it
changes in any way. Microchips do not
contain a global positioning system (GPS),
so they cannot be used to track your pet.
However, they are considered legal proof
of ownership in case your pet is stolen.

13
Introducing cats to cats
SOME PEOPLE SAY CATS ARE LIKE THE INTRODUCTION PROCESS
CHIPS — you can’t have just one! As one
of the 85 million1 cat owners out there, By planning ahead and taking things slow,
you may be considering adding a new your chances of success when introducing
feline friend to your home. Whether your cats are much greater. If you rush into
current cat is lonely, her companion cat things and attempt to “force” a relationship,
recently passed away or you simply love you might inadvertently sabotage a
cats, it is important to take a few relationship that could have otherwise
precautions to ensure that your cat-to-cat worked out. Here are six steps that can
introductions go as smoothly as possible. help you ensure a successful introduction:

CONSIDER YOUR CURRENT CAT: Step 1: Trade Scents

Perhaps the most important step in adding Once you have selected a potential new
another cat to your home is carefully cat, ask the shelter or breeder if you can
considering the resident cat’s personality. take home a blanket the cat has slept on
Features such as looks, size, breed, to give to your resident kitty. Also ask if it
gender or any quality other than would be possible to bring a blanket from
personality are not factors that should home that your resident kitty has slept on,
weigh heavily in the decision. Instead, to give to your new cat. In some cases,
focus primarily on personality matching: this will not be possible — especially with
kittens (due to disease concerns), but if
If you have a very laid-back, elderly or you can exchange the cats’ scents with
frail kitty at home, it is best to avoid one another, you will be introducing a very
kittens and very playful or important identification and communication
rambunctious cats. signal right off the bat.
If you have a rambunctious cat who
zooms all over the house, getting a
very laid-back or quiet, shy cat is Step 2: Prepare a Separate Room
probably not wise.
Try to focus on cats who have Some cats can be dropped into the middle
personalities similar to that of your of a new home and adapt just fine, with
current cat. everything working out between the kitties.
However, that approach can also end in
disaster, injuries, or a failed adoption.
Before bringing your new cat home, we
recommend that you:

14
Introducing cats to cats

Find a quiet room in your house (a You should confine the resident cat to
bedroom or bathroom) where you can a room and allow the new cat to roam
keep the new cat safely separated the house. Each cat should use the
from the resident cat for a few days. other cat’s (scooped!) litter box, food
Make sure it's a room where the and water dishes, beds and toys, so
resident cat has been, that can be the only thing being exchanged is the
easily accessed by all human family cats themselves.
members for social interactions and Continue to feed both cats close to
playtime, and that it is set up with food, their respective sides of the door.
water, litter, toys and soft beds. While the new cat is exploring your
Choose a room that has an inch or two home, you may want to close bedroom
of space under the door for feline and bathroom doors at first so she
introductions. does not feel overwhelmed. Over the
course of a few days, open a door or
Step 3: Dinner Time on Opposite Sides two at a time and increase the amount
of space the new cat has access to.
Place both cats’ dishes close to the door,
on their respective sides. If one of the cats If either cat appears stressed, nervous or
refuses to eat, you can feed them fearful, you might want to do the exchange
elsewhere, but still place dishes of tuna or described above multiple times, for
some other tasty snack on either side of example:
the door. By having both cats experience
something positive (a meal or yummy The new cat spends a few days in the
snack) while they are nearby, they can room, then a few in the house, then
learn to form positive associations with back in the room — while the resident
each other. cat is in the opposite location. This can
help ensure lots of scent exchange
If either cat is growling or hissing at the and desensitization.
other through the door, do not put
them together anytime soon; take Step 5: Let Them See Each Other
things very slowly and continue
feeding this way. If the problems If everything seems to be going well, and
continue for several days, it is likely the everyone is acting, eating and using the
match is not going to work out. litter box normally, you’re doing great! The
next step is to open the separating door,
Step 4: Exchange Scents Around the but keep a gate of some sort across it so
House they can see, smell and have contact with
each other. The gate should prevent
If both cats are eating well, and appear complete access. (A baby gate is perfect,
calm and relaxed on their respective sides but usually not high enough for cats, so
of the door, then it’s time for the big scent you may need to stack two on top of each
exchange: other.)

15
Introducing cats to cats

Continue feeding both cats on their Leaving Cats Alone Together

respective sides of the door, and continue
switching them back and forth. It’s a good idea to separate the cats at first
when you will not be around to supervise
Step 6: Allow Them to Meet them. You want to ensure that you see all
their interactions and know exactly what is
If everything seems fine, and everyone is going on. After you feel that the cats are
acting, eating and using the litter box getting along, you can ease up on this
normally, then it’s time to take down the step.
gates.
Getting another cat will have a big impact
There may be some hissing or swatting, on your resident cat, so considering your
but cats often will work things out by decision carefully and introducing them
themselves. If there is a fight in which one properly is the right thing to do. Good luck!
of the cats is traumatized or injured (and
you have followed all of the above steps),
then the match will likely not work out.
If the cats seem to tolerate, ignore, enjoy
or interact with each other – that’s great
news!

16
Introducing dogs to cats
WHETHER YOU ALREADY HAVE A If a dog plays roughly, it is best to
DOG and are considering getting a cat, or avoid kittens or elderly cats who can
vice versa, it is very important to think easily be hurt. Instead, stick to playful
about their first introduction. By letting a adults who are interested in play, but
loose cat and an off-leash dog meet each are also confident enough to take care
other in an open room for the first time, of themselves. If a cat is rambunctious
you are probably setting up both animals or playful, a dog that is playful, but
to fail. Instead, plan ahead and take your gentle, could be a great option.
time. If a dog or cat is elderly, laid back,
quiet or anxious, then a calm
MATCHING CATS AND DOGS counterpart would be best. Avoid
rambunctious companions who may
If you’re thinking of getting a cat for your annoy, frighten or otherwise bother the
dog or a dog for your cat, it’s important to other pet.
consider both animals’ personalities. It
may be helpful to look for a companion THE INTRODUCTION PROCESS
that has already been exposed to the other
species in the past. Regardless of whether you are getting a
new cat or a new dog, the first introduction
If a dog attempts to aggressively between your current pet and your new pet
chase, pin, pick up or otherwise is a very important part of the process.
“manhandle” any cat, it is best to not Here are four steps that can help you
even consider getting a cat — or at ensure a successful meeting:
least to proceed with caution.
Additionally, a dog who growls, lunges Step 1: Choose the Proper Meeting
at or obsessively barks at a cat would Location
probably do best in a cat-free
environment. Likewise, a cat who Resident cat to new dog: If you are
growls, swats at, runs from or hides adopting a dog, you should not take
from dogs would probably prefer to not your cat to meet him at a shelter, or
live with a dog. other establishment which houses a
If a dog loves chasing things, then a number of animals for health and
fearful, shy cat who runs away safety reasons. Instead, the
probably wouldn’t be the best choice, introduction should take place at
as it could trigger the dog to chase. home.
Similarly, an energetic cat who runs Resident dog to new cat: If you are
and pounces would fall into this same adopting a cat, do not take your dog
category. into a shelter and expose him to the
cats.
17
Introducing dog to cats

This can be highly stressful or traumatic Step 3: Make Leashed Introductions

for all of the cats. Also, it's not necessarily
a good indicator of how the dog will react Allow both animals to be in the same
at home. Instead, ask the shelter’s room at the same time, but keep the
adoption counselors whether they have dog securely leashed. Securing the cat
any dog-savvy, confident cats they will in a harness with a leash for the
allow to meet your dog under controlled introduction is also a good idea if the
conditions. If this is not possible, an cat is comfortable wearing a harness.
alternative would be to have your dog Continue with this type of introduction
meet a dog-savvy cat who belongs to a until the dog is calm and ignores the
friend or relative. As a last resort, you can cat, and the cat is calm, eating and
bring your new kitty home and do an using the litter box normally.
introduction at home. If there is any fear or aggression
displayed on either animal’s part, stay
Step 2: Separate the Animals at step 2 longer.
Continue indefinitely until both the dog
Across a few days, rotate which animal and cat seem happy and relaxed
has freedom and which is confined to around each other.
allow each animal plenty of time to When no one is home, the dog or cat
investigate the other one’s scent. should be securely confined to
Sometimes the dog should be confined separate areas so unsupervised
to a crate or another room (or taken to interactions are not possible.
another location if he can’t be left
alone) to allow the cat time to roam Step 4: Allow Unsupervised
free and investigate the smell of the Interactions
dog.
If the dog obsessively digs at the Unsupervised time together can occur
separation barrier or barks at the cat after the cat and dog have been
for more than a day or two, the supervised around each other for a
interaction likely won’t work without significant period of time (a month or so)
proper training. You may need the help and you are positive they will not hurt each
of a professional. other.
When no one is home, the dog or cat
must always be securely confined so TRAINING TIP
unsupervised interactions are not
possible. If the dog stares at the cat or the door
Once the dog is calm (or at least not separating the cat, try to distract him and
obsessed with the cat) and the cat is get him to look away with treats, a happy
calm, eating and using the litter box voice or by gently guiding the dog away on
normally, you can proceed to the next a leash. Once the dog is away from the
step. cat, try offering a treat. If he takes it,
repeat this process until he is no longer
focused on the cat or door.

18
Introducing dog to cats

WARNING SIGNS

If the dog remains overly focused, If it is your cat who is growling, hissing
does not take his eyes off the cat or or swatting, give the cat a break and
the door, completely ignores you or try again on another day. You might
lunges suddenly as soon as the cat also need to try a different dog. A cat
moves, this is probably a dangerous who continually hisses and growls at
match. If you are looking for a dog for all types of dogs will likely not want to
your resident cat, try another dog. If live with dogs. Your cat may tolerate a
this is your dog, you should probably dog, but she probably won’t be happy
not get him a cat. — which is an unfair situation for her.
If at any time the dog lunges toward, If the cat stops eating, drinking, using
growls, snaps at or shows any the litter box, visiting with family
aggression toward a calm, quiet, still members, or constantly stays hidden in
cat, this match will probably not work another room, she is not happy. You
out. The same holds true if a cat might want to consider finding a better
attacks a calm, quiet dog. If you are match or contacting a professional
committed to make the relationship animal behaviorist for advice.
work, you will probably need a
professional at this point.
If you are looking for a cat for your
dog, and your dog displays
questionable behavior around a cat
who is growling, hissing and swatting,
try again with another, calmer cat. If he
continues to display questionable
behavior around multiple cats, it is
likely he should not live with cats.

19
Housetraining puppies & dogs
ARE YOU DEALING WITH A POOPY Pick a special treat that your
PUPPY? Or a urinating Yorkie? Don’t give puppy/dog will only get after pooping
up on Fido just yet! Housetraining a new or peeing outside.
puppy or dog can be difficult and can take Keep the treats handy and take them
a lot of patience but it’s important to stick every single time you take the dog out.
to it and get your new family member on Treats should be small (about the size
the right track. Hopefully these tips and of your pinky fingernail), and you will
tricks help you deal with your need at least three to five treats for
housetraining woes. each potty break.

UNDERSTANDING NORMAL DOG SCHEDULING YOUR DOG’S FEEDINGS

BEHAVIOR
It’s always better to feed by schedule,
It’s not instinctive for dogs to relieve rather than free feeding. Eating all day
themselves outside; it’s only natural for = pooping all day! Feeding at a more
them to not go where they sleep. consistent scheduling means pooping
Everywhere else is fair game! on a more consistent schedule.
You must be patient. Regardless of You can get your dog on scheduled
whether you have a puppy or have feedings by:
recently adopted an adult, the dog Talking to your veterinarian to help
won’t automatically understand the you determine the appropriate
routine in your house or know where amount of food your dog needs
the door is. It’s up to you to train your and the number of feedings per
dog. day.
If your dog has an accident indoors it’s Removing any uneaten food after
important to not rub their nose in the 20 minutes.
urine or feces — you should never Not offering the dog more food
punish your dog for an accident. This until the next scheduled meal.
will only teach your dog to fear you Stick to it! Your dog might whine
and potentially hide when they have to for more food but if you stick with
go. it, your dog should be eating on
schedule within one to four meals.
GETTING STARTED

If you want to read more on

housetraining your dog, we
recommend Way to Go! How to
Housetrain a Dog of Any Age by Karen
London and Patricia McConnell.
20
Housetraining puppies & dogs

CLEANING UP MESSES Be sure to go back inside the house

and immediately clean any soiled
Dogs are attracted to spots where they areas according to the instructions
urinated/defecated previously, so it’s above.
important to clean up messes thoroughly.
Pet urine is very difficult to get out, and SUPERVISING YOUR DOG
standard household cleansers don’t cut it.
You can rent or hire a carpet cleaner with It’s important that you see everything that
a special pet-urine enzymatic cleaner or comes out of the dog so you can interrupt
use an enzymatic cleaner, such as inside accidents and reward outside
Nature’s Miracle or Simple Solution, which potties, so supervising your dog properly is
can be found in most pet supply stores or key.
online.
If you notice a mess after it has happened,
To clean thoroughly with the enzymatic it might mean you are not supervising
cleaner: closely enough and may want to take
Saturate any dried spots with steps to supervise them more closely.
lukewarm water.
Press the area with paper towels Always watch for signals your dog has to
until there is no more moisture. go. These may include sniffing, squatting,
Follow the instructions on the circling, or their tail pointing out straight.
container and repeat three times. When you see any of these signals, take
the dog out immediately.
USING CHEMICAL ATTRACTION TO
YOUR ADVANTAGE If your dog begins to poop/pee inside:
Immediately interrupt by clapping and
If your dog has an accident inside, your saying “Ah ah!”
first response might be to clean it up and Get the dog outside as soon as
dispose of it right away. But since dogs are possible (carry your dog when possible
attracted to going to the same places over and put the leash on as you head out
and over, you can use this to your the door).
advantage! To do this: Stay with your dog outside so you can
Pick up any indoor accidents and bring praise them.
them outside to the potty area. Once you are outside, take the dog
Put the poop right onto the ground, or right to the area where you want him to
secure the material used to wipe up “go.”
the urine to the ground with a rock or Walk back and forth or around in
stick. little circles.
These can be removed after the pet Do not play or converse with your
has pottied in the area. dog until they go (this may take
When they do poop outside, leave the some time, but be patient).
most recent poop in place to When the dog begins to go, quietly
encourage your dog to go again in that whisper a command you plan to
area. After each new poop has been eventually use to tell him to “go,”
left in that area, you can clean up any such as: go potty, get busy, etc.
previous poop. Quietly praise them and get that
special treat ready.

21
Housetraining puppies & dogs

As soon as the poop/pee is If you take your dog out and nothing
complete, immediately praise your happens:
dog, quickly give them several Be patient. If nothing happens after 10
treats and then play. minutes or so, come back in, keep the
Now your dog gets to do whatever dog on leash and go back out 10 to 15
they want (go for a walk, run back minutes later. Repeat as needed.
inside, etc.)
If you take your dog out, but all they do
SCHEDULING POTTY BREAKS is run around and play:
Make sure your dog is on a leash
During this process, make sure to take about 6 feet long.
your dog out at regular, predictable Make sure there are no play triggers
intervals. around, such as toys, pets, children,
Most puppies will need to relieve etc.
themselves immediately after they Ignore the dog. Don’t talk to or play
wake up or finish eating. with them, don’t yell, and don’t point
The frequency of potty breaks out any poop.
depends on age, breed and previous Just walk back and forth, and don’t
training (anywhere from every 10 make a big deal about anything. Dogs
minutes to once an hour). can be easily distracted and love to get
Set a watch alarm or timer to remind attention, so if you give them attention,
you of potty breaks. they’ll never figure it out!
Stick to the intervals until your dog is
successful for several days. If you keep finding accidents:
Slowly increase the amount of time You are most likely not supervising
between intervals if your dog properly. Go back to our “Supervising
succeeds. Your Dog” section for more guidance.
As your dog succeeds, gradually allow
more and more freedom inside the Your dog is having accidents inside the
home. crate:
If you see accidents, go back to more If the crate is too large, your dog can
frequent potty breaks, increase have a potty area and a sleeping area,
supervision and reduce freedom so make sure the crate is the right
inside. size. Your dog should be able to stand
up, turn around and lie down.
HOUSETRAINING TROUBLESHOOTING If your dog goes to the bathroom and
gets it all over them, take your dog to
If none of this works, or a dog that the vet to rule out any medical
you’ve had for years suddenly starts problems.
having accidents inside, contact a If medical issues are ruled out, contact
veterinarian or animal behaviorist right a trainer or behaviorist.
away. Determining health issues may Do your best to determine if the dog
resolve the problem. had previously been kept in cages for
Intact males may be marking, in which long periods of times. This makes
case neutering can help significantly housetraining more difficult, and advice
(not to mention there are added health from a professional may be required.
benefits of neutering).

22
Housetraining puppies & dogs

Your dog is crying in the crate in the HOPEFULLY THESE TIPS WILL HELP
middle of the night: decrease the accidents in your house and
Your dog may be telling you that they increase the happiness in your household
have to go to the bathroom, or might — for the humans and pets!
be begging for attention.
Check your journal to see if it is time
for a break.
If you’re not sure, take your dog
directly outside, but do not
acknowledge them.
If they go to the bathroom, quietly and
briefly acknowledge them to avoid
teaching your dog that midnight potties
are fun.
If your dog doesn’t go to the bathroom,
put them back into the crate and go
back to bed.
Make sure your dog has been
adequately exercised before crating for
the night.
If you are certain your dog isn’t full of
energy, doesn’t have to go to the
bathroom, and is healthy, they may
need to just cry it out.
If your dog seems to be panicking,
digging, destroying bedding, etc.,
contact a behaviorist or trainer right
away, as you may be dealing with
separation anxiety.

You can’t seem to keep an eye on the

dog:
Keep your dog tethered to you at all
times or gate them in an area with you.
Restrict home access with gates and
closed doors.
If you can’t keep your eye on your dog,
they should be crated (such as at
night, when you are gone, etc.).
Do not let the crate become a
substitute for training! Dogs need
plenty of exercise and social
interaction.

23
Grooming your pet
GROOMING YOUR PET is an important Since cats groom themselves, they
part of caring for them and keeping them generally do not need to be bathed, unless
healthy. Both cats and dogs need regular they have fleas or a medical condition that
brushing, and animals with longer hair warrants it. Before bathing your cat,
require frequent trips to a professional always consult your veterinarian.
groomer. Fur that becomes matted can
cause serious health issues for your pet. Pets also require regular nail trims. For
Dirt and oils can accumulate under mats dogs and cats, long nails can become
and cause painful skin infections, and the painful and interfere with their ability to
mats themselves can be painful as they walk. Keeping nails short also helps you
pull and stretch the skin underneath. protect your floors and furniture from being
Severe matting can even affect your pet’s scratched and your clothes from being
ability to see, walk and eat normally. snagged. Here’s what you need to know to
groom your pet’s nails.
Long and medium-haired pets generally
require daily brushing. Short-haired pets DOGS
should usually be brushed once or twice
per week. The frequency of professional Before You Clip
grooming and haircuts varies depending
on your pet's breed. Consult your groomer Get your dog used to having his paws
or veterinarian for a recommendation. handled. This is easier if you start
when the dog is still a puppy, but with
All dogs also require regular bathing to patience, you can also train most older
keep their skin and hair coat clean and dogs.
healthy. The frequency of bathing depends Begin by speaking softly as you
on your dog’s lifestyle, breed and coat massage each paw, gently separating
type. Ask your veterinarian to recommend the toes.
the best bathing regimen for your dog. Your pet may instinctively pull away. If
Also, always use a shampoo specifically this happens, repeat whatever it was
formulated for dogs. Many human your dog didn’t like, but do it slower
shampoos can be too harsh for your dog’s until he begins to accept it.
skin. If your dog has itchy, red, dry, flaky or When you think your pet is ready, cut
oily skin, you should consult your one or two nails.
veterinarian. Have a treat ready for positive
reinforcement.
For dogs that are nervous or resistant
to handling, try having someone assist
you with holding your dog still and
gently petting and reassuring him.
24
Grooming your pet

Dogs that are unruly or that try to bite Hold the paw in your hand and locate
should be taken to a groomer or the pinkish part of the nail. This is a
veterinarian for nail trimming in order blood vessel, often called the “quick,”
to prevent injury to both you and the and should be avoided. The nail
dog. should be clipped slightly above this
area.
CATS If you cannot see the pinkish part, just
clip the very tip of the nail.
Before You Clip Always have a clotting agent on hand
in case you accidently cut below the
Most cats do not like to be restrained quick and cause bleeding. This is
so it is best to accustom them to being usually in the form of a powder is
handled while they are still kittens. But available at any pet supply store.
if you have adopted an adult cat don’t Most pets should have their nails
despair! trimmed every 2 to 3 weeks. Some
Try the “less is best” approach first dogs that are frequently walked on
when it comes to restraint. Try clipping paved areas will continuously wear
your cat’s nails while he is napping or down their nails and may need less
snuggling on your lap. Be sure to pet frequent trimming.
him and reassure him after each nail. If you are unsure about the process,
Give treats for positive reinforcement consult your veterinarian or groomer.
If possible, have a friend or family
member hold and pet your cat while
you are trimming his nails.
If necessary, wrap you kitty in a towel
to prevent him from scratching you
during nail trimming.
Cats that are unruly or that try to bite
should be taken to a groomer or
veterinarian for nail trimming in order
to prevent injury to both you and the
cat.

HOW TO CLIP NAILS FOR DOGS AND

CATS

Use an appropriate pet nail trimmer.

These are available at any pet supply
store and come in a variety of styles
and sizes for both dogs and cats. If
you are unsure which one to use, ask
your veterinarian or groomer for a
recommendation.

25
 We hope this guide gave you some guidance on how to best care for
your pet. American Humane is committed to ensuring the safety, welfare
and well-being of animals, and providing these resources is only one
way we do so. For more resources, visit americanhumane.org/fact-sheet.
And to learn more about our life-saving programs, visit
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